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Nicotra R, Lutz C, Messal HA, Jonkers J. Rat Models of Hormone Receptor-Positive Breast Cancer. J Mammary Gland Biol Neoplasia 2024; 29:12. [PMID: 38913216 PMCID: PMC11196369 DOI: 10.1007/s10911-024-09566-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2024] [Accepted: 06/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Hormone receptor-positive (HR+) breast cancer (BC) is the most common type of breast cancer among women worldwide, accounting for 70-80% of all invasive cases. Patients with HR+ BC are commonly treated with endocrine therapy, but intrinsic or acquired resistance is a frequent problem, making HR+ BC a focal point of intense research. Despite this, the malignancy still lacks adequate in vitro and in vivo models for the study of its initiation and progression as well as response and resistance to endocrine therapy. No mouse models that fully mimic the human disease are available, however rat mammary tumor models pose a promising alternative to overcome this limitation. Compared to mice, rats are more similar to humans in terms of mammary gland architecture, ductal origin of neoplastic lesions and hormone dependency status. Moreover, rats can develop spontaneous or induced mammary tumors that resemble human HR+ BC. To date, six different types of rat models of HR+ BC have been established. These include the spontaneous, carcinogen-induced, transplantation, hormone-induced, radiation-induced and genetically engineered rat mammary tumor models. Each model has distinct advantages, disadvantages and utility for studying HR+ BC. This review provides a comprehensive overview of all published models to date.
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Affiliation(s)
- Raquel Nicotra
- Division of Molecular Pathology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands
- Oncode Institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands
| | - Catrin Lutz
- Division of Molecular Pathology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
- Oncode Institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
| | - Hendrik A Messal
- Division of Molecular Pathology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
- Oncode Institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
| | - Jos Jonkers
- Division of Molecular Pathology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
- Oncode Institute, Amsterdam, Netherlands.
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Furth PA, Wang W, Kang K, Rooney BL, Keegan G, Muralidaran V, Wong J, Shearer C, Zou X, Flaws JA. Overexpression of Estrogen Receptor α in Mammary Glands of Aging Mice Is Associated with a Proliferative Risk Signature and Generation of Estrogen Receptor α-Positive Mammary Adenocarcinomas. THE AMERICAN JOURNAL OF PATHOLOGY 2023; 193:103-120. [PMID: 36464513 PMCID: PMC9768686 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajpath.2022.09.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2022] [Revised: 08/29/2022] [Accepted: 09/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
Age is a risk factor for human estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer, with highest prevalence following menopause. While transcriptome risk profiling is available for human breast cancers, it is not yet developed for prognostication for primary or secondary breast cancer development utilizing at-risk breast tissue. Both estrogen receptor α (ER) and aromatase overexpression have been linked to human breast cancer. Herein, conditional genetically engineered mouse models of estrogen receptor 1 (Esr1) and cytochrome P450 family 19 subfamily A member 1 (CYP19A1) were used to show that induction of Esr1 overexpression just before or with reproductive senescence and maintained through age 30 months resulted in significantly higher prevalence of estrogen receptor-positive adenocarcinomas than CYP19A1 overexpression. All adenocarcinomas tested showed high percentages of ER+ cells. Mammary cancer development was preceded by a persistent proliferative transcriptome risk signature initiated within 1 week of transgene induction that showed parallels to the Prosigna/Prediction Analysis of Microarray 50 human prognostic signature for early-stage human ER+ breast cancer. CYP19A1 mice also developed ER+ mammary cancers, but histology was more divided between adenocarcinoma and adenosquamous, with one ER- adenocarcinoma. Results demonstrate that, like humans, generation of ER+ adenocarcinoma in mice was facilitated by aging mice past the age of reproductive senescence. Esr1 overexpression was associated with a proliferative estrogen pathway-linked signature that preceded appearance of ER+ mammary adenocarcinomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priscilla A Furth
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia; Department of Medicine, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia.
| | - Weisheng Wang
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Keunsoo Kang
- Department of Microbiology, College of Science and Technology, Dankook University, Cheonan, Republic of Korea
| | - Brendan L Rooney
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Grace Keegan
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Vinona Muralidaran
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Justin Wong
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Charles Shearer
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Xiaojun Zou
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Jodi A Flaws
- Department of Comparative Biosciences, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, Urbana, Illinois
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3
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Giles ED, Wellberg EA. Preclinical Models to Study Obesity and Breast Cancer in Females: Considerations, Caveats, and Tools. J Mammary Gland Biol Neoplasia 2020; 25:237-253. [PMID: 33146844 PMCID: PMC8197449 DOI: 10.1007/s10911-020-09463-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2020] [Accepted: 10/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Obesity increases the risk for breast cancer and is associated with poor outcomes for cancer patients. A variety of rodent models have been used to investigate these relationships; however, key differences in experimental approaches, as well as unique aspects of rodent physiology lead to variability in how these valuable models are implemented. We combine expertise in the development and implementation of preclinical models of obesity and breast cancer to disseminate effective practices for studies that integrate these fields. In this review, we share, based on our experience, key considerations for model selection, highlighting important technical nuances and tips for use of preclinical models in studies that integrate obesity with breast cancer risk and progression. We describe relevant mouse and rat paradigms, specifically highlighting differences in breast tumor subtypes, estrogen production, and strategies to manipulate hormone levels. We also outline options for diet composition and housing environments to promote obesity in female rodents. While we have applied our experience to understanding obesity-associated breast cancer, the experimental variables we incorporate have relevance to multiple fields that investigate women's health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erin D Giles
- Department of Nutrition, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, USA.
| | - Elizabeth A Wellberg
- Department of Pathology, University of Oklahoma Health Science Center, Stephenson Cancer Center, Harold Hamm Diabetes Center, Oklahoma City, OK, USA
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4
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Cytoplasmic ERα and NFκB Promote Cell Survival in Mouse Mammary Cancer Cell Lines. Discov Oncol 2020; 11:76-86. [PMID: 32008217 DOI: 10.1007/s12672-020-00378-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/21/2019] [Accepted: 01/16/2020] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
There is a desperate need in the field for mouse mammary tumors and cell lines that faithfully mimic estrogen receptor (ER) expression and activity found in human breast cancers. We found that several mouse mammary cancer cell lines express ER but fail to demonstrate classical estrogen-driven proliferation or transcriptional activity. We investigated whether these cell lines may be used to model tamoxifen resistance by using small molecule inhibitors to signaling pathways known to contribute to resistance. We found that the combination of NFκB inhibition and ER antagonists significantly reduced cell proliferation in vitro, as well as growth of syngeneic tumors. Surprisingly, we found that ER was localized to the cytoplasm, regardless of any type of treatment. Based on this, we probed extra-nuclear functions of ER and found that co-inhibition of ER and NFκB led to an increase in oxidative stress and apoptosis. Together, these findings suggest that cytoplasmic ER and NFκB may play redundant roles in protecting mammary cancer cells from oxidative stress and cell death. Although this study has not identified a mouse model with classical ER activity, cytoplasmic ER has been described in a small subset of human breast tumors, suggesting that these findings may be relevant for some breast cancer patients.
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Cornelissen LM, Henneman L, Drenth AP, Schut E, de Bruijn R, Klarenbeek S, Zwart W, Jonkers J. Exogenous ERα Expression in the Mammary Epithelium Decreases Over Time and Does Not Contribute to p53-Deficient Mammary Tumor Formation in Mice. J Mammary Gland Biol Neoplasia 2019; 24:305-321. [PMID: 31729597 DOI: 10.1007/s10911-019-09437-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/18/2019] [Accepted: 10/09/2019] [Indexed: 12/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Approximately 75% of all breast cancers express the nuclear hormone receptor estrogen receptor α (ERα). However, the majority of mammary tumors from genetically engineered mouse models (GEMMs) are ERα-negative. To model ERα-positive breast cancer in mice, we exogenously introduced expression of mouse and human ERα in an existing GEMM of p53-deficient breast cancer. After initial ERα expression during mammary gland development, expression was reduced or lost in adult glands and p53-deficient mammary tumors. Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChIP)-sequencing analysis of primary mouse mammary epithelial cells (MMECs) derived from these models, in which expression of the ERα constructs was induced in vitro, confirmed interaction of ERα with the DNA. In human breast and endometrial cancer, and also in healthy breast tissue, DNA binding of ERα is facilitated by the pioneer factor FOXA1. Surprisingly, the ERα binding sites identified in primary MMECs, but also in mouse mammary gland and uterus, showed an high enrichment of ERE motifs, but were devoid of Forkhead motifs. Furthermore, exogenous introduction of FOXA1 and GATA3 in ERα-expressing MMECs was not sufficient to promote ERα-responsiveness of these cells. Together, this suggests that species-specific differences in pioneer factor usage between mouse and human are dictated by the DNA sequence, resulting in ERα-dependencies in mice that are not FOXA1 driven. These species-specific differences in ERα-biology may limit the utility of mice for in vivo modeling of ERα-positive breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisette M Cornelissen
- Division of Molecular Pathology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, 1066CX, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Linda Henneman
- Division of Molecular Pathology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, 1066CX, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Mouse Clinic for Cancer and Aging - Transgenic facility, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, Amsterdam, 1066CX, The Netherlands
| | - Anne Paulien Drenth
- Division of Molecular Pathology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, 1066CX, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Eva Schut
- Division of Molecular Pathology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, 1066CX, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Roebi de Bruijn
- Division of Molecular Pathology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, 1066CX, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Division of Molecular Carcinogenisis, Oncode Institute, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, Amsterdam, 1066CX, The Netherlands
| | - Sjoerd Klarenbeek
- Experimental Animal Pathology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, Amsterdam, 1066CX, The Netherlands
| | - Wilbert Zwart
- Division of Oncogenomics, Oncode Institute, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, 1066CX, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
- Laboratory of Chemical Biology and Institute for Complex Molecular Systems, Department of Biomedical Engineering, Eindhoven University of Technology, PO Box 513, Eindhoven, The Netherlands.
| | - Jos Jonkers
- Division of Molecular Pathology, The Netherlands Cancer Institute, Plesmanlaan 121, 1066CX, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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Furth PA. Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma and BRCA1. Endocr Relat Cancer 2019; 26:R73-R79. [PMID: 30444720 PMCID: PMC6494719 DOI: 10.1530/erc-18-0449] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2018] [Accepted: 11/14/2018] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma agonists have been proposed as breast cancer preventives. Individuals who carry a mutated copy of BRCA1, DNA repair-associated gene, are at increased risk for development of breast cancer. Published data in the field suggest there could be interactions between peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma and BRCA1 that could influence the activity of peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma agonists for prevention. This review explores these possible interactions between peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma agonists and BRCA1 and discusses feasible experimental directions to provide more definitive information on the potential connections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priscilla A Furth
- Departments of Oncology and Medicine, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
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7
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Özdemir BC, Sflomos G, Brisken C. The challenges of modeling hormone receptor-positive breast cancer in mice. Endocr Relat Cancer 2018; 25:R319-R330. [PMID: 29563191 DOI: 10.1530/erc-18-0063] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/18/2018] [Accepted: 03/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) tumors account for 70-80% of all breast cancer (BC) cases and are characterized by estrogen dependency for their growth. Endocrine therapies using estrogen receptor antagonists or aromatase inhibitors represent a key component of the standard of care for these tumors. The occurrence of de novo or acquired resistance to estrogen withdrawal represents an important clinical problem, impacting on patient survival. In addition, despite an initially favorable outcome, a part of ER+ BC patients present with disease recurrence locally or at distant sites years or even decades after apparent remission. In vivo models that closely mimic human disease are urgently needed to study the biology of these tumors, investigate the molecular mechanisms underlying endocrine resistance and identify patients at risk of recurrence. Despite the similarities in the overall hormonal regulation of mammary gland development between mice and humans, the majority of the mammary carcinomas occurring in genetically engineered mouse models (GEMMs) are ER negative and most xenograft models are based on few ER+ cancer cell lines. We recently showed that the microenvironment is critical for ER+ cancer cells and discuss in this review the potential of intraductal xenograft model for basic and preclinical research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Berna C Özdemir
- Department of Oncology, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Vaudois, Lausanne, Switzerland
- International Cancer Prevention Institute, Epalinges, Switzerland
| | - George Sflomos
- ISREC - Swiss Institute for Experimental Cancer Research, School of Life Sciences, Ecole polytechnique fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Cathrin Brisken
- International Cancer Prevention Institute, Epalinges, Switzerland
- ISREC - Swiss Institute for Experimental Cancer Research, School of Life Sciences, Ecole polytechnique fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
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8
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Mani S. Microbiota and Breast Cancer. PROGRESS IN MOLECULAR BIOLOGY AND TRANSLATIONAL SCIENCE 2017; 151:217-229. [DOI: 10.1016/bs.pmbts.2017.07.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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9
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Alamri AM, Kang K, Groeneveld S, Wang W, Zhong X, Kallakury B, Hennighausen L, Liu X, Furth PA. Primary cancer cell culture: mammary-optimized vs conditional reprogramming. Endocr Relat Cancer 2016; 23:535-54. [PMID: 27267121 PMCID: PMC4962879 DOI: 10.1530/erc-16-0071] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2016] [Accepted: 06/06/2016] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The impact of different culture conditions on biology of primary cancer cells is not always addressed. Here, conditional reprogramming (CRC) was compared with mammary-optimized EpiCult-B (EpiC) for primary mammary epithelial cell isolation and propagation, allograft generation, and genome-wide transcriptional consequences using cancer and non-cancer mammary tissue from mice with different dosages of Brca1 and p53 Selective comparison to DMEM was included. Primary cultures were established with all three media, but CRC was most efficient for initial isolation (P<0.05). Allograft development was faster using cells grown in EpiC compared with CRC (P<0.05). Transcriptome comparison of paired CRC and EpiC cultures revealed 1700 differentially expressed genes by passage 20. CRC promoted Trp53 gene family upregulation and increased expression of epithelial differentiation genes, whereas EpiC elevated expression of epithelial-mesenchymal transition genes. Differences did not persist in allografts where both methods yielded allografts with relatively similar transcriptomes. Restricting passage (<7) reduced numbers of differentially expressed genes below 50. In conclusion, CRC was most efficient for initial cell isolation but EpiC was quicker for allograft generation. The extensive culture-specific gene expression patterns that emerged with longer passage could be limited by reducing passage number when both culture transcriptomes were equally similar to that of the primary tissue. Defining impact of culture condition and passage on the transcriptome of primary cells could assist experimental design and interpretation. For example, differences that appear with passage and culture condition are potentially exploitable for comparative studies targeting specific biological networks in different transcriptional environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahmad M Alamri
- Department of OncologyLombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA Department of Clinical Laboratory SciencesCollege of Applied Medical Sciences, King Khalid University, Abha, Saudi Arabia
| | - Keunsoo Kang
- Laboratory of Genetics and PhysiologyNational Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, 8 Center Drive, Bethesda, Maryland, USA Department of MicrobiologyDankook University, Cheonan, Republic of Korea
| | - Svenja Groeneveld
- Department of OncologyLombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA Department PharmazieLudwig-Maximilians-Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Weisheng Wang
- Department of OncologyLombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Xiaogang Zhong
- Department of BiostatisticsBioinformatics and Biomathematics, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Bhaskar Kallakury
- Department of PathologyLombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Lothar Hennighausen
- Laboratory of Genetics and PhysiologyNational Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases, National Institutes of Health, 8 Center Drive, Bethesda, Maryland, USA
| | - Xuefeng Liu
- Department of PathologyLombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
| | - Priscilla A Furth
- Department of OncologyLombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA Department of MedicineLombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
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Yeh ES, Vernon-Grey A, Martin H, Chodosh LA. Tetracycline-regulated mouse models of cancer. Cold Spring Harb Protoc 2014; 2014:pdb.top069823. [PMID: 25275112 DOI: 10.1101/pdb.top069823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
Genetically engineered mouse models (GEMMs) have proven essential to the study of mammalian gene function in both development and disease. However, traditional constitutive transgenic mouse model systems are limited by the temporal and spatial characteristics of the experimental promoter used to drive transgene expression. To address this limitation, considerable effort has been dedicated to developing conditional and inducible mouse model systems. Although a number of approaches to generating inducible GEMMs have been pursued, several have been restricted by toxic or undesired physiological side effects of the compounds used to activate gene expression. The development of tetracycline (tet)-dependent regulatory systems has allowed for circumvention of these issues resulting in the widespread adoption of these systems as an invaluable tool for modeling the complex nature of cancer progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth S Yeh
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104; Abramson Family Cancer Research Institute, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104
| | - Ann Vernon-Grey
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104; Abramson Family Cancer Research Institute, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104
| | - Heather Martin
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104; Abramson Family Cancer Research Institute, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104
| | - Lewis A Chodosh
- Department of Cancer Biology, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104; Department of Cell and Developmental Biology, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104; Department of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104; Abramson Family Cancer Research Institute, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19104
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11
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Best SA, Hutt KJ, Fu NY, Vaillant F, Liew SH, Hartley L, Scott CL, Lindeman GJ, Visvader JE. Dual roles for Id4 in the regulation of estrogen signaling in the mammary gland and ovary. Development 2014; 141:3159-64. [DOI: 10.1242/dev.108498] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/03/2023]
Abstract
The HLH transcriptional regulator Id4 exerts important roles in different organs, including the neural compartment, where Id4 loss usually results in early lethality. To explore the role of this basally restricted transcription factor in the mammary gland, we generated a cre-inducible mouse model. MMTV- or K14-cre-mediated deletion of Id4 led to a delay in ductal morphogenesis, consistent with previous findings using a germ-line knockout mouse model. A striking increase in the expression of ERα (Esr1), PR and FoxA1 was observed in both the basal and luminal cellular subsets of Id4-deficient mammary glands. Together with chromatin immunoprecipitation of Id4 on the Esr1 and Foxa1 promoter regions, these data imply that Id4 is a negative regulator of the ERα signaling axis. Unexpectedly, examination of the ovaries of targeted mice revealed significantly increased numbers of secondary and antral follicles, and reduced Id4 expression in the granulosa cells. Moreover, expression of the cascade of enzymes that are crucial for estrogen biosynthesis in the ovary was decreased in Id4-deficient females and uterine weights were considerably lower, indicating impaired estrogen production. Thus, compromised ovarian function and decreased circulating estrogen likely contribute to the mammary ductal defects evident in Id4-deficient mice. Collectively, these data identify Id4 as a novel regulator of estrogen signaling, where Id4 restrains ERα expression in the basal and luminal cellular compartments of the mammary gland and regulates estrogen biosynthesis in the ovary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A. Best
- ACRF Stem Cells and Cancer Division, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Karla J. Hutt
- Ovarian Biology Laboratory, Prince Henry's Institute, Monash Medical Center, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
- Department of Anatomy and Developmental Biology, Monash University, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
| | - Nai Yang Fu
- ACRF Stem Cells and Cancer Division, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - François Vaillant
- ACRF Stem Cells and Cancer Division, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Seng H. Liew
- Ovarian Biology Laboratory, Prince Henry's Institute, Monash Medical Center, Clayton, Victoria 3168, Australia
| | - Lynne Hartley
- ACRF Stem Cells and Cancer Division, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
| | - Clare L. Scott
- ACRF Stem Cells and Cancer Division, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
- Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Victoria 3050, Australia
| | - Geoffrey J. Lindeman
- ACRF Stem Cells and Cancer Division, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
- Department of Medicine, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
- Department of Medical Oncology, The Royal Melbourne Hospital, Parkville, Victoria 3050, Australia
| | - Jane E. Visvader
- ACRF Stem Cells and Cancer Division, Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Medical Research, Parkville, Victoria 3052, Australia
- Department of Medical Biology, The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Victoria 3010, Australia
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Abstract
The majority of human breast cancers are estrogen receptor-positive (ER+), but this has proven challenging to model in genetically engineered mice. This review summarizes information on 21 mouse models that develop ER+ mammary cancer. Where available, information on cancer pathology and gene expression profiles is referenced to assist in understanding which histological subtype of ER+ human cancer each model might represent. ESR1, CCDN1, prolactin, TGFα, AIB1, ESPL1, and WNT1 overexpression, PIK3CA gain of function, as well as loss of P53 (Trp53) or STAT1 are associated with ER+ mammary cancer. Treatment with the PPARγ agonist efatutazone in a mouse with Brca1 and p53 deficiency and 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene exposure in combination with an activated myristoylated form of AKT1 also induce ER+ mammary cancer. A spontaneous mutant in nude mice that develops metastatic ER+ mammary cancer is included. Age of cancer development ranges from 3 to 26 months and the percentage of cancers that are ER+ vary from 21 to 100%. Not all models are characterized as to their estrogen dependency and/or response to anti-hormonal therapy. Strain backgrounds include C57Bl/6, FVB, BALB/c, 129S6/SvEv, CB6F1, and NIH nude. Most models have only been studied on one strain background. In summary, while a range of models are available for studies of pathogenesis and therapy of ER+ breast cancers, many could benefit from further characterization, and opportunity for development of new models remains.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sarah A. Dabydeen
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA 20057
| | - Priscilla A. Furth
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA 20057
- Department of Medicine, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA 20057
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13
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Okolowsky N, Furth PA, Hamel PA. Oestrogen receptor-alpha regulates non-canonical Hedgehog-signalling in the mammary gland. Dev Biol 2014; 391:219-29. [PMID: 24769368 DOI: 10.1016/j.ydbio.2014.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/05/2014] [Revised: 03/22/2014] [Accepted: 04/10/2014] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Mesenchymal dysplasia (mes) mice harbour a truncation in the C-terminal region of the Hh-ligand receptor, Patched-1 (mPtch1). While the mes variant of mPtch1 binds to Hh-ligands with an affinity similar to that of wild type mPtch1 and appears to normally regulate canonical Hh-signalling via smoothened, the mes mutation causes, among other non-lethal defects, a block to mammary ductal elongation at puberty. We demonstrated previously Hh-signalling induces the activation of Erk1/2 and c-src independently of its control of smo activity. Furthermore, mammary epithelial cell-directed expression of an activated allele of c-src rescued the block to ductal elongation in mes mice, albeit with delayed kinetics. Given that this rescue was accompanied by an induction in estrogen receptor-alpha (ERα) expression and that complex regulatory interactions between ERα and c-src are required for normal mammary gland development, it was hypothesized that expression of ERα would also overcome the block to mammary ductal elongation at puberty in the mes mouse. We demonstrate here that conditional expression of ERα in luminal mammary epithelial cells on the mes background facilitates ductal morphogenesis with kinetics similar to that of the MMTV-c-src(Act) mice. We demonstrate further that Erk1/2 is activated in primary mammary epithelial cells by Shh-ligand and that this activation is blocked by the inhibitor of c-src, PP2, is partially blocked by the ERα inhibitor, ICI 182780 but is not blocked by the smo-inhibitor, SANT-1. These data reveal an apparent Hh-signalling cascade operating through c-src and ERα that is required for mammary gland morphogenesis at puberty.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nadia Okolowsky
- Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathobiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada M5S 1A8
| | - Priscilla A Furth
- Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Departments of Oncology and Medicine, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, USA
| | - Paul A Hamel
- Department of Laboratory Medicine & Pathobiology, Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada M5S 1A8.
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Colvin EK, Weir C, Ikin RJ, Hudson AL. SV40 TAg mouse models of cancer. Semin Cell Dev Biol 2014; 27:61-73. [PMID: 24583142 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcdb.2014.02.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/29/2013] [Revised: 02/03/2014] [Accepted: 02/05/2014] [Indexed: 02/09/2023]
Abstract
The discovery of a number of viruses with the ability to induce tumours in animals and transform human cells has vastly impacted cancer research. Much of what is known about tumorigenesis today regarding tumour drivers and tumour suppressors has been discovered through experiments using viruses. The SV40 virus has proven extremely successful in generating transgenic models of many human cancer types and this review provides an overview of these models and seeks to give evidence as to their relevance in this modern era of personalised medicine and technological advancements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily K Colvin
- Bill Walsh Translational Cancer Research Laboratory, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, University of Sydney, Royal North Shore Hospital, St. Leonards, New South Wales 2065, Australia.
| | - Chris Weir
- Bill Walsh Translational Cancer Research Laboratory, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, University of Sydney, Royal North Shore Hospital, St. Leonards, New South Wales 2065, Australia.
| | - Rowan J Ikin
- Bill Walsh Translational Cancer Research Laboratory, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, University of Sydney, Royal North Shore Hospital, St. Leonards, New South Wales 2065, Australia.
| | - Amanda L Hudson
- Bill Walsh Translational Cancer Research Laboratory, Kolling Institute of Medical Research, University of Sydney, Royal North Shore Hospital, St. Leonards, New South Wales 2065, Australia.
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15
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Kirma NB, Tekmal RR. Transgenic mouse models of hormonal mammary carcinogenesis: advantages and limitations. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2012; 131:76-82. [PMID: 22119744 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2011.11.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/24/2011] [Revised: 11/04/2011] [Accepted: 11/08/2011] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Mouse models of breast cancer, especially transgenic and knockout mice, have been established as valuable tools in shedding light on factors involved in preneoplastic changes, tumor development and malignant progression. The majority of mouse transgenic models develop estrogen receptor (ER) negative tumors. This is seen as a drawback because the majority of human breast cancers present an ER positive phenotype. On the other hand, several transgenic mouse models have been developed that produce ER positive mammary tumors. These include mice over-expressing aromatase, ERα, PELP-1 and AIB-1. In this review, we will discuss the value of these models as physiologically relevant in vivo systems to understand breast cancer as well as some of the pitfalls involving these models. In all, we argue that the use of transgenic models has improved our understanding of the molecular aspects and biology of breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nameer B Kirma
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78229-3900, USA
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16
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Song X, Pan ZZ. Estrogen receptor-beta agonist diarylpropionitrile counteracts the estrogenic activity of estrogen receptor-alpha agonist propylpyrazole-triol in the mammary gland of ovariectomized Sprague Dawley rats. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol 2012; 130:26-35. [PMID: 22266284 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsbmb.2011.12.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2011] [Revised: 12/23/2011] [Accepted: 12/27/2011] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Although estrogen can bind both types of estrogen receptors, estrogen receptor-alpha (ERα) is dominant in mediating estrogenic activity in the mammary gland and uterus. Excessive estrogenic activity such as estrogen-based postmenopausal hormone replacement therapy increases the risk for breast and endometrial cancers. The adverse effect of estrogen on uterine endometrium can be opposed by progestins; however, estrogen-plus-progestin regimen imposes substantially greater risk for breast cancer than estrogen alone. In this study, we used ERα-selective agonist propylpyrazole-triol (PPT) and ERβ-selective agonist diarylpropionitrile (DPN) to activate ERα and estrogen receptor-beta (ERβ) separately in an ovariectomized rat model and determined whether PPT-activated ERα function in the mammary gland can be suppressed by DPN activated ERβ. Ovariectomized rats were randomly divided into six groups and treated with DMSO (control), DPN, PPT, PPT/DPN, PPT/Progesterone, and PPT/Progesterone/DPN, respectively. In the mammary gland, PPT but not DPN increased cell proliferation and amphiregulin gene expression; importantly, the stimulatory effect of PPT on mammary cell proliferation and amphiregulin gene expression can be suppressed by DPN. In the uterus, the effect of PPT on uterine weight and endometrial cell proliferation was not inhibited by DPN but can be inhibited by progesterone. These data provide in vivo evidence that PPT activated ERα activity in the mammary gland can be opposed by ERβ-selective agonist DPN, which may be explored for the development of better hormone replacement therapy regimen with less risk for breast cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaozheng Song
- Department of Animal Science, Vermont Cancer Center, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT 05405, USA
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17
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Mohibi S, Mirza S, Band H, Band V. Mouse models of estrogen receptor-positive breast cancer. J Carcinog 2011; 10:35. [PMID: 22279420 PMCID: PMC3263010 DOI: 10.4103/1477-3163.91116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2011] [Accepted: 10/20/2011] [Indexed: 12/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Breast cancer is the most frequent malignancy and second leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women. Despite advances in genetic and biochemical analyses, the incidence of breast cancer and its associated mortality remain very high. About 60 – 70% of breast cancers are Estrogen Receptor alpha (ER-α) positive and are dependent on estrogen for growth. Selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs) have therefore provided an effective targeted therapy to treat ER-α positive breast cancer patients. Unfortunately, development of resistance to endocrine therapy is frequent and leads to cancer recurrence. Our understanding of molecular mechanisms involved in the development of ER-α positive tumors and their resistance to ER antagonists is currently limited due to lack of experimental models of ER-α positive breast cancer. In most mouse models of breast cancer, the tumors that form are typically ER-negative and independent of estrogen for their growth. However, in recent years more attention has been given to develop mouse models that develop different subtypes of breast cancers, including ER-positive tumors. In this review, we discuss the currently available mouse models that develop ER-α positive mammary tumors and their potential use to elucidate the molecular mechanisms of ER-α positive breast cancer development and endocrine resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shakur Mohibi
- Department of Genetics, Cell Biology, and Anatomy, College of Medicine, University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
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18
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Furth PA, Cabrera MC, Díaz-Cruz ES, Millman S, Nakles RE. Assessing estrogen signaling aberrations in breast cancer risk using genetically engineered mouse models. Ann N Y Acad Sci 2011; 1229:147-55. [PMID: 21793850 DOI: 10.1111/j.1749-6632.2011.06086.x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Aberrations in estrogen signaling increase breast cancer risk. Molecular mechanisms that impact breast cancer initiation, promotion, and progression can be investigated using genetically engineered mouse models. Increasing estrogen receptor alpha (ERα) expression levels twofold is sufficient to initiate and promote breast cancer progression. Initiation and promotion can be increased by p53 haploinsufficiency and by coexpressing the nuclear coactivators amplified in breast cancer 1 (AIB1) or the splice variant AIB1Δ3. Progression to invasive cancer is found with coexpression of these nuclear coactivators as well as following a single dose of 7,12-dimethylbenz(a)anthracene. Loss of signal transducer and activator of transcription 5a reduces the prevalence of initiation and promotion but does not protect from invasive cancer development. Cyclin D1 loss completely interrupts mammary epithelial proliferation and survival when ERα is overexpressed. Loss of breast cancer gene 1 increases estrogen signaling and cooperates with ERα overexpression in initiation, promotion, and progression of mammary cancer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Priscilla A Furth
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, USA.
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19
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Reichenstein M, Rauner G, Barash I. Conditional repression of STAT5 expression during lactation reveals its exclusive roles in mammary gland morphology, milk-protein gene expression, and neonate growth. Mol Reprod Dev 2011; 78:585-96. [PMID: 21688337 DOI: 10.1002/mrd.21345] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/23/2011] [Accepted: 05/29/2011] [Indexed: 11/07/2022]
Abstract
The role of Stat5 in maintaining adequate lactation was studied in Stat5a(-/-) mice expressing a conditionally suppressed transgenic STAT5 in their mammary glands. This system enables distinguishing STAT5's effects on lactation from its contribution to mammary development during gestation. Females were allowed to express STAT5 during their first pregnancy. After delivery, STAT5 levels were manipulated by doxycycline administration and withdrawal. In two lines of genetically modified mice, the absence of STAT5 expression during the first 10 days of lactation resulted in a decrease of 29% or 41% in newborn weight gain. The STAT5-dependent decrease in growth was recoverable, but not completely reversible, particularly when STAT5 expression was omitted for the first 4 days of lactation. Within the first 10 days of STAT5-omitted lactation, alveolar occupancy regressed by 50% compared to that measured at delivery. By Day 10, only 18% of the fat-pad area was involved in milk production. The alveolar regression caused by 4 days of STAT5 deficiency was reversible, but neonate growth remained delayed. STAT5 deficiency resulted in reduced estrogen receptor α and connexin 32 gene expression, accompanied by delayed induction of both anti- and pro-apoptotic Bcl-2 family members. An increase in Gata-3 expression may reflect an attempt to maintain alveolar progenitors. A decrease of 39% and 23% in WAP and α-lactalbumin expression, respectively, with no associated effects on β-casein, also resulted from lack of STAT5 expression in the first 10 days of lactation. This deficiency enhances the major effect of alveolar regression on delayed weight gain in newborns.
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20
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Overexpression of ligase defective E6-associated protein, E6-AP, results in mammary tumorigenesis. Breast Cancer Res Treat 2011; 132:97-108. [PMID: 21553290 DOI: 10.1007/s10549-011-1567-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2011] [Accepted: 04/29/2011] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
E6-associated protein (E6-AP) is a dual function protein. It acts as an E3 ubiquitin-protein ligase enzyme and coactivator of steroid hormone receptors such as estrogen (ERα) and progesterone (PR) receptors. It promotes the degradation of ERα and PR through the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway. Furthermore, it has been shown that the levels of E6-AP are inversely associated with that of ERα in human breast tumors. But the role of wild-type human E6-AP and its ubiquitin-protein ligase activity in mammary tumorigenesis is still unknown. To investigate this role, the authors utilized transgenic mice lines that specifically overexpress either the wild-type human E6-AP (E6-AP(WT)) or the ubiquitin-protein ligase defective E6-AP that contains C833S mutation (E6-AP(C833S)) in the mammary gland. To further substantiate the role of E6-AP in the development of breast tumorigenesis, it was also examined the expression of E6-AP in a large cohort of human breast cancer samples. The transgenic mice that overexpress wild-type E6-AP (E6-AP(WT)) fail to develop mammary tumors. Unlike the E6-AP(WT) mice, the E6-AP(C833S) mice that overexpress ubiquitin-protein ligase defective E6-AP protein develop mammary hyperplasia with a median latency of 18 months. These observations suggest that the inactivation of the ubiquitin-protein ligase function of E6-AP is sufficient to initiate the process of mammary tumor development. Furthermore, the data also suggests that E6-AP exerts its effects on target cells by modulating the protein levels and functions of ERα and PR. In addition, it was found in human breast cancer patients that the level of E6-AP is decreased in invasive breast tumors compared to normal breast tissue. Moreover, the authors also show that the survival patterns for E6-AP negative patients were worse compared to E6-AP positive patients. Taken together, these data suggests that E6-AP may act as a tumor suppressor in breast.
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21
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Nakles RE, Shiffert MT, Díaz-Cruz ES, Cabrera MC, Alotaiby M, Miermont AM, Riegel AT, Furth PA. Altered AIB1 or AIB1Δ3 expression impacts ERα effects on mammary gland stromal and epithelial content. Mol Endocrinol 2011; 25:549-63. [PMID: 21292825 DOI: 10.1210/me.2010-0114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Amplified in breast cancer 1 (AIB1) (also known as steroid receptor coactivator-3) is a nuclear receptor coactivator enhancing estrogen receptor (ER)α and progesterone receptor (PR)-dependent transcription in breast cancer. The splice variant AIB1Δ3 demonstrates increased ability to promote ERα and PR-dependent transcription. Both are implicated in breast cancer risk and antihormone resistance. Conditional transgenic mice tested the in vivo impact of AIB1Δ3 overexpression compared with AIB1 on histological features of increased breast cancer risk and growth response to estrogen and progesterone in the mammary gland. Combining expression of either AIB1 or AIB1Δ3 with ERα overexpression, we investigated in vivo cooperativity. AIB1 and AIB1Δ3 overexpression equivalently increased the prevalence of hyperplastic alveolar nodules but not ductal hyperplasia or collagen content. When AIB1 or AIB1Δ3 overexpression was combined with ERα, both stromal collagen content and ductal hyperplasia prevalence were significantly increased and adenocarcinomas appeared. Overexpression of AIB1Δ3, especially combined with overexpressed ERα, led to an abnormal response to estrogen and progesterone with significant increases in stromal collagen content and development of a multilayered mammary epithelium. AIB1Δ3 overexpression was associated with a significant increase in PR expression and PR downstream signaling genes. AIB1 overexpression produced less marked growth abnormalities and no significant change in PR expression. In summary, AIB1Δ3 overexpression was more potent than AIB1 overexpression in increasing stromal collagen content, inducing abnormal mammary epithelial growth, altering PR expression levels, and mediating the response to estrogen and progesterone. Combining ERα overexpression with either AIB1 or AIB1Δ3 overexpression augmented abnormal growth responses in both epithelial and stromal compartments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca E Nakles
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University, Washington, DC, USA
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22
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Cheema A, Knights CD, Rao M, Catania J, Perez R, Simons B, Dakshanamurthy S, Kolukula VK, Tilli M, Furth PA, Albanese C, Avantaggiati ML. Functional mimicry of the acetylated C-terminal tail of p53 by a SUMO-1 acetylated domain, SAD. J Cell Physiol 2010; 225:371-84. [PMID: 20458745 DOI: 10.1002/jcp.22224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
The ubiquitin-like molecule, SUMO-1, a small protein essential for a variety of biological processes, is covalently conjugated to many intracellular proteins, especially to regulatory components of the transcriptional machinery, such as histones and transcription factors. Sumoylation provides either a stimulatory or an inhibitory signal for proliferation and for transcription, but the molecular mechanisms by which SUMO-1 achieves such versatility of effects are incompletely defined. The tumor suppressor and transcription regulator p53 is a relevant SUMO-1 target. Particularly, the C-terminal tail of p53 undergoes both sumoylation and acetylation. While the effects of sumoylation are still controversial, acetylation modifies p53 interaction with chromatin embedded promoters, and enforces p53 apoptotic activity. In this study, we show that the N-terminal region of SUMO-1 might functionally mimic this activity of the p53 C-terminal tail. We found that this SUMO-1 domain possesses similarity with the C-terminal acetylable p53 tail as well as with acetylable domains of other transcription factors. SUMO-1 is, indeed, acetylated when conjugated to its substrates and to p53. In the acetylable form SUMO-1 tunes the p53 response by modifying p53 transcriptional program, by promoting binding onto selected promoters and by favoring apoptosis. By contrast, when non-acetylable, SUMO-1 enforces cell-cycle arrest and p53 binding to a different sets of genes. These data demonstrate for the first time that SUMO-1, a post-translational modification is, in turn, modified by acetylation. Further, they imply that the pleiotropy of effects by which SUMO-1 influences various cellular outcomes and the activity of p53 depends upon its acetylation state.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amrita Cheema
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
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23
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Ramamoorthy S, Dhananjayan SC, Demayo FJ, Nawaz Z. Isoform-specific degradation of PR-B by E6-AP is critical for normal mammary gland development. Mol Endocrinol 2010; 24:2099-113. [PMID: 20829392 DOI: 10.1210/me.2010-0116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
E6-associated protein (E6-AP), which was originally identified as an ubiquitin-protein ligase, also functions as a coactivator of estrogen (ER-α) and progesterone (PR) receptors. To investigate the in vivo role of E6-AP in mammary gland development, we generated transgenic mouse lines that either overexpress wild-type (WT) human E6-AP (E6-AP(WT)) or ubiquitin-protein ligase-defective E6-AP (E6-AP(C833S)) in the mammary gland. Here we show that overexpression of E6-AP(WT) results in impaired mammary gland development. In contrast, overexpression of E6-AP(C833S) or loss of E6-AP (E6-AP(KO)) increases lateral branching and alveolus-like protuberances in the mammary gland. We also show that the mammary phenotypes observed in the E6-AP transgenic and knockout mice are due, in large part, to the alteration of PR-B protein levels. We also observed alteration in ER-α protein level, which might contribute to the observed mammary phenotype by regulating PR expression. Furthermore, E6-AP regulates PR-B protein levels via the ubiquitin-proteasome pathway. Additionally, we also show that E6-AP impairs progesterone-induced Wnt-4 expression by decreasing the steady state level of PR-B in both mice and in human breast cancer cells. In conclusion, we present the novel observation that E6-AP controls mammary gland development by regulating PR-B protein turnover via the ubiquitin proteasome pathway. For the first time, we show that the E3-ligase activity rather than the coactivation function of E6-AP plays an important role in the mammary gland development, and the ubiquitin-dependent PR-B degradation is not required for its transactivation functions. This mechanism appears to regulate normal mammogenesis, and dysregulation of this process may be an important contributor to mammary cancer development and progression.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sivapriya Ramamoorthy
- Department of Biochemistry & Molecular Biology, Braman Breast Cancer Institute (M-877), University of Miami School of Medicine, Batchelor Building, Room 416, 1580 Northwest 10 Avenue, Miami, Florida 33136, USA
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24
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Powell E, Huang SX, Xu Y, Rajski SR, Wang Y, Peters N, Guo S, Xu HE, Hoffmann FM, Shen B, Xu W. Identification and characterization of a novel estrogenic ligand actinopolymorphol A. Biochem Pharmacol 2010; 80:1221-9. [PMID: 20599778 DOI: 10.1016/j.bcp.2010.06.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2010] [Revised: 06/15/2010] [Accepted: 06/16/2010] [Indexed: 02/07/2023]
Abstract
Xenoestrogenic compounds are abundant in the modern environment including phytoestrogens from plants, chemical by-products from industry, and secondary metabolites from microbes; all can profoundly affect human health. Consequently mechanism-based screens are urgently needed to improve the rate at which the xenoestrogens are discovered. Estrogen Receptor (ER) dimerization is required for target gene transcription. The three ER dimer pairs (ERalpha/alpha homodimers, ERbeta/beta homodimers, and ERalpha/beta heterodimers) exhibit diverse physiological responses in response to ligand-dependent activation with ERalpha/alpha homodimers being pro-proliferative and ERbeta/beta homodimers being anti-proliferative. The biological role of the ERalpha/beta heterodimer remains unclear. We previously developed a cell-based, bioluminescence resonance energy transfer (BRET) assay that can distinguish natural estrogenic compounds based on their abilities to activate the three diverse ER dimer pairs. Using BRET assays, we sought to identify novel xenoestrogens from soil bacteria that preferentially activate ERalpha/beta heterodimer with hopes of shedding light on the biological function of this elusive dimer pair. Here we describe the application of BRET assays in high throughput screens of crude bacterial extracts not previously screened for ER modulatory function and originating from unique ecological niches. Here we report the discovery and biological evaluation of a new natural product, actinopolymorphol A (1), that preferentially induces ERalpha/beta dimerization. Actinopolymorphol A represents the first representative of a new ER modulatory scaffold.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emily Powell
- McArdle Laboratory for Cancer Research, University of Wisconsin-Madison, Madison, WI 53706, USA
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25
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Díaz-Cruz ES, Furth PA. Deregulated estrogen receptor alpha and p53 heterozygosity collaborate in the development of mammary hyperplasia. Cancer Res 2010; 70:3965-74. [PMID: 20466998 DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.can-09-3450] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Both increased estrogen receptor alpha (ER(alpha)) expression and germline disruption of one p53 allele increase breast cancer risk in women. Genetically engineered mouse models of deregulated ER(alpha) expression and p53 haploinsufficiency were used to investigate similarities and differences of each genetic lesion alone and in combination on mammary preneoplasia development. Each genetic lesion independently and in combination led to development of age-dependent preneoplasia, but the highest prevalence was found in compound mice with increased ER(alpha) expression coupled with p53 heterozygosity. All genetic lesions were associated with extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 activation; however, only p53 heterozygous and compound mice showed increased levels of phosphorylated AKT and decreased p27 expression. The highest levels of cell proliferation were found in compound mice, but increased levels were also found with either increased ER(alpha) expression or p53 heterozygosity. Mice with increased ER(alpha) expression showed predicted higher levels of nuclear-localized ER(alpha), but this was attenuated in compound mice in association with a relative increase in Src phosphorylation. Parity protection was limited to p53 heterozygous mice and not found in mice with increased ER(alpha) alone. In summary, increased and deregulated ER(alpha) collaborates with p53 heterozygosity in increasing the risk of mammary preneoplasia development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Edgar S Díaz-Cruz
- Departments of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia 20057, USA
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26
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Miermont AM, Parrish AR, Furth PA. Role of ERalpha in the differential response of Stat5a loss in susceptibility to mammary preneoplasia and DMBA-induced carcinogenesis. Carcinogenesis 2010; 31:1124-31. [PMID: 20181624 DOI: 10.1093/carcin/bgq048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Deregulated estrogen signaling is evidently linked to breast cancer pathophysiology, although the role of signal transducer and activator of transcription (Stat)5a, integral to normal mammary gland development, is less clear. A mouse model of mammary epithelial cell-targeted deregulated estrogen receptor alpha (ERalpha) expression [conditional ERalpha in mammary epithelium (CERM)] was crossed with mice carrying a germ line deletion of Stat5a [Stat5a-/-] to investigate interactions between ERalpha and Stat5a in mammary tissue. CERM, CERM/Stat5a+/-, CERM/Stat5a-/-, Stat5a+/-, Stat5a-/- and wild-type (WT) mice were generated to test the roles of ERalpha and Stat5a on pubertal differentiation and cancer progression with and without exposure to the chemical carcinogen 7,12-dimethylbenz[a]anthracene (DMBA). Only CERM/Stat5a-/- mice demonstrated delayed pubertal terminal end bud differentiation. Without DMBA exposure, Stat5a loss abrogated ERalpha-initiated hyperplastic alveolar nodule (HAN) development and, similarly, Stat5a-/- mice did not develop HANs. However, although Stat5a loss still reduced ERalpha-initiated HAN prevalence following DMBA exposure, Stat5a loss without deregulated ERalpha was associated with an increased HAN prevalence compared with WT. Progression to ERalpha(+) and ERalpha(-) adenocarcinoma was found in all CERM-containing genotypes (CERM, CERM/Stat5a+/-, CERM/Stat5a-/-) and ERalpha(+) adenocarcinoma in the Stat5a-/- genotype. The mammary epithelial cell proliferative index was increased only in CERM mice independent of Stat5a loss. No differences in apoptotic indices were found. In summary, Stat5a cooperated with deregulated ERalpha in retarding pubertal mammary differentiation and contributed to ERalpha-initiated preneoplasia, but its loss did not prevent development of invasive cancer. Moreover, in the absence of deregulated ERalpha, Stat5a loss was associated with development of both HANs and invasive cancer following DMBA exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne M Miermont
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University, Washington, DC 20007, USA.
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27
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Taneja P, Frazier DP, Kendig RD, Maglic D, Sugiyama T, Kai F, Taneja NK, Inoue K. MMTV mouse models and the diagnostic values of MMTV-like sequences in human breast cancer. Expert Rev Mol Diagn 2009; 9:423-40. [PMID: 19580428 DOI: 10.1586/erm.09.31] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Mouse mammary tumor virus (MMTV) long terminal repeat (LTR)-driven transgenic mice are excellent models for breast cancer as they allow for the targeted expression of various oncogenes and growth factors in neoplastic transformation of mammary glands. Numerous MMTV-LTR-driven transgenic mouse models of breast cancer have been created in the past three decades, including MMTV-neu/ErbB2, cyclin D1, cyclin E, Ras, Myc, int-1 and c-rel. These transgenic mice develop mammary tumors with different latency, histology and invasiveness, reflecting the oncogenic pathways activated by the transgene. Recently, homologous sequences of the env gene of MMTV have been identified in approximately 40% of human breast cancers, but not in normal breast or other types of cancers, suggesting possible involvement of mammary tumor virus in human breast carcinogenesis. Accumulating evidence demonstrates the association of MMTV provirus with progesterone receptor, p53 mutations and advanced-stage breast cancer. Thus, the detection of MMTV-like sequences may have diagnostic value to predict the clinical outcome of breast cancer patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pankaj Taneja
- The Department of Pathology, Wake Forest University Health Sciences, Medical Center Boulevard, Winston-Salem, NC 27157, USA
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28
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Mastroianni M, Kim S, Kim YC, Esch A, Wagner C, Alexander CM. Wnt signaling can substitute for estrogen to induce division of ERalpha-positive cells in a mouse mammary tumor model. Cancer Lett 2009; 289:23-31. [PMID: 19665836 DOI: 10.1016/j.canlet.2009.07.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2008] [Revised: 04/30/2009] [Accepted: 07/15/2009] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
The interaction of estrogen with the estrogen receptor (ER, principally ERalpha) induces growth of human breast tumor cells. In contrast, ERalpha-positive cells have been described as non-dividing cells in normal breast (though estrogen stimulation of ERalpha cells directs the division of neighboring cells). However, there is a small sub-population of cells in normal mammary tissue that are ERalpha-positive, that can divide, and therefore share this property with human breast tumor cells. In order to investigate their pattern of growth regulation, we measured the fraction of dividing ERalpha(+) cells during normal growth and compared that to glands stimulated by oncogenic Wnt effectors. First, we found there was no difference between the rate of division of ERalpha(+) cells and ERalpha(-) cells, whether the population was responding to estrogen or Wnt mitogens. The proportion of dividing ERalpha(+) mammary epithelial cells was increased (10x) in response to pregnancy, and similar increases were observed in response to ectopic Wnt signaling. We propose that Wnt signaling can substitute for estrogen to drive total population growth (that includes ERalpha(+) cells). Although the E-ERalpha-derived mitogenic response is situated in a minority of the luminal cells, and the Wnt-LRP5/6-derived mitogenic response is situated in a minority of basal cells, overall, the growth response of the mammary epithelial population is remarkably similar.
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Affiliation(s)
- Melissa Mastroianni
- McArdle Lab for Cancer Research, University of Wisconsin, 1400 University Avenue, Madison 53706, United States
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Accelerated mammary maturation and differentiation, and delayed MMTVneu-induced tumorigenesis of K303R mutant ERalpha transgenic mice. Oncogene 2009; 28:3177-87. [PMID: 19561644 DOI: 10.1038/onc.2009.174] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
We identified a somatic mutation in estrogen receptor-alpha (ERalpha) in breast cancer causing a lysine to arginine transition (K303R) resulting in hypersensitivity to estrogen, altered associations with coactivators and corepressors and altered posttranslational modifications of ERalpha. We have developed a transgenic mouse expressing the K303R mutant ERalpha under control of the mouse mammary tumor virus (MMTV) promoter. At 4 months of age, K303R ERalpha transgenic animals demonstrate precocious alveolar budding compared with wild-type ERalpha transgenic mice or nontransgenic littermates. Despite these morphologic differences, K303R ERalpha transgenic mice displayed no differences in levels of ERalpha, progesterone receptor or proliferation at this time-point. Pregnancy or chronic estrogen plus progesterone exposure in K303R ERalpha transgenic mice also resulted in significantly more alveolar budding, increased beta-casein production and dilated ducts when compared with nontransgenic littermates. To examine the effects of mutant expression on tumorigenesis, mutant ERalpha mice were crossed with FVB-MMTVneu mice and significantly delayed time to neu-mediated tumorigenesis in bigenic animals. In contrast, mutant expression did not affect carcinogen-induced tumorigenesis. Collectively, these data demonstrate that aberrant estrogenic signaling through the K303R ERalpha mutation may lead to precocious alveolar budding in virgin mice, and to an expedited maturation and differentiation phenotype in the mammary glands of hormonally stimulated animals.
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Tan H, Zhong Y, Pan Z. Autocrine regulation of cell proliferation by estrogen receptor-alpha in estrogen receptor-alpha-positive breast cancer cell lines. BMC Cancer 2009; 9:31. [PMID: 19171042 PMCID: PMC2636826 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2407-9-31] [Citation(s) in RCA: 34] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2008] [Accepted: 01/26/2009] [Indexed: 01/23/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Estrogen receptor-alpha (ERalpha) is essential for mammary gland development and is a major oncogene in breast cancer. Since ERalpha is not colocalized with the cell proliferation marker Ki-67 in the normal mammary glands and the majority of primary breast tumors, it is generally believed that paracrine regulation is involved in ERalpha mediated cell proliferation. In the paracrine model, ERalpha-positive cells don't proliferate but will release some paracrine growth factors to stimulate the neighboring cells to proliferate. In a subpopulation of cancer cells in some primary breast tumors, however, ERalpha does colocalize with the cell proliferation marker Ki-67, suggesting an autocrine regulation by ERalpha in some primary breast tumors. METHODS Colocalization of ERalpha with Ki-67 in ERalpha-positive breast cancer cell lines (MCF-7, T47D, and ZR75-1) was evaluated by immunofluorescent staining. Cell cycle phase dependent expression of ERalpha was determined by co-immunofluorescent staining of ERalpha and the major cyclins (D, E, A, B), and by flow cytometry analysis of ERalphahigh cells. To further confirm the autocrine action of ERalpha, MCF-7 cells were growth arrested by ICI182780 treatment, followed by treatment with EGFR inhibitor, before estrogen stimulation and analyses for colocalization of Ki-67 and ERalpha and cell cycle progression. RESULTS Colocalization of ERalpha with Ki-67 was present in all three ERalpha-positive breast cancer cell lines. Unlike that in the normal mammary glands and the majority of primary breast tumors, ERalpha is highly expressed throughout the cell cycle in MCF-7 cells. Without E2 stimulation, MCF-7 cells released from ICI182780 treatment remain at G1 phase. E2 stimulation of ICI182780 treated cells, however, promotes the expression and colocalization of ERalpha and Ki-67 as well as the cell cycle progressing through the S and G2/M phases. Inhibition of EGFR signaling does not inhibit the autocrine action of ERalpha. CONCLUSION Our data indicate that ERalpha can mediate estrogen-induced cell proliferation in an autocrine mode in ERalpha-positive breast cancer cell lines. All of the three ERalpha-positive cell lines used in our study showed colocalization of ERalpha and Ki-67, indicating that these cell lines might be originated from primary tumor cells with autocrine regulation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huining Tan
- Department of Animal Science, Vermont Cancer Center, University of Vermont, Burlington, VT 05405, USA.
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Bennett CN, Green JE. Unlocking the power of cross-species genomic analyses: identification of evolutionarily conserved breast cancer networks and validation of preclinical models. Breast Cancer Res 2008; 10:213. [PMID: 18828875 PMCID: PMC2614501 DOI: 10.1186/bcr2125] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The application of high-throughput genomic technologies has revealed that individual breast tumors display a variety of molecular features that require more personalized approaches to treatment. Several recent studies have demonstrated that a cross-species analytic approach provides a powerful means to filter through genetic complexity by identifying evolutionarily conserved genetic networks that are fundamental to the oncogenic process. Mouse-human tumor comparisons will provide insights into cellular origins of tumor subtypes, define interactive oncogenetic networks, identify potential novel therapeutic targets, and further validate as well as guide the selection of genetically engineered mouse models for preclinical testing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christina N Bennett
- Laboratory of Cancer Biology and Genetics, National Cancer Institute, Bethesda, MD 20892, USA
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Allred DC, Medina D. The relevance of mouse models to understanding the development and progression of human breast cancer. J Mammary Gland Biol Neoplasia 2008; 13:279-88. [PMID: 18704660 DOI: 10.1007/s10911-008-9093-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2008] [Accepted: 07/04/2008] [Indexed: 12/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Mouse modeling of human breast cancer has developed tremendously over the past ten years. Human breast cancer is characterized by enormous biological diversity and, collectively, the new models have come much closer to encompassing this diversity. They have provided a deeper understanding of the fundamental events that mediate the initiation, development, and progression of breast cancer, and they offer new opportunities to develop and test strategies to treat and, perhaps, even prevent the disease. This chapter reviews the historical development of mouse models of breast cancer and highlights some of their major strengths, weaknesses, and contributions.
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Affiliation(s)
- D Craig Allred
- Department of Pathology and Immunology, Washington University School of Medicine, Campus Box 8118, 660 South Euclid Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63110, USA.
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Tilli MT, Parrish AR, Cotarla I, Jones LP, Johnson MD, Furth PA. Comparison of mouse mammary gland imaging techniques and applications: reflectance confocal microscopy, GFP imaging, and ultrasound. BMC Cancer 2008; 8:21. [PMID: 18215290 PMCID: PMC2266934 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2407-8-21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2007] [Accepted: 01/23/2008] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Genetically engineered mouse models of mammary gland cancer enable the in vivo study of molecular mechanisms and signaling during development and cancer pathophysiology. However, traditional whole mount and histological imaging modalities are only applicable to non-viable tissue. Methods We evaluated three techniques that can be quickly applied to living tissue for imaging normal and cancerous mammary gland: reflectance confocal microscopy, green fluorescent protein imaging, and ultrasound imaging. Results In the current study, reflectance confocal imaging offered the highest resolution and was used to optically section mammary ductal structures in the whole mammary gland. Glands remained viable in mammary gland whole organ culture when 1% acetic acid was used as a contrast agent. Our application of using green fluorescent protein expressing transgenic mice in our study allowed for whole mammary gland ductal structures imaging and enabled straightforward serial imaging of mammary gland ducts in whole organ culture to visualize the growth and differentiation process. Ultrasound imaging showed the lowest resolution. However, ultrasound was able to detect mammary preneoplastic lesions 0.2 mm in size and was used to follow cancer growth with serial imaging in living mice. Conclusion In conclusion, each technique enabled serial imaging of living mammary tissue and visualization of growth and development, quickly and with minimal tissue preparation. The use of the higher resolution reflectance confocal and green fluorescent protein imaging techniques and lower resolution ultrasound were complementary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maddalena T Tilli
- Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University, Washington, DC 20057, USA.
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Kumar MJM, Ponvijay KS, Nandhini R, Nagarajan RS, Jose J, Srinivas G, Nagarajan P, Venkatesan R, Kumar K, Singh S. A mouse model for luminal epithelial like ER positive subtype of human breast cancer. BMC Cancer 2007; 7:180. [PMID: 17880731 PMCID: PMC2094712 DOI: 10.1186/1471-2407-7-180] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2007] [Accepted: 09/20/2007] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Generation of novel spontaneous ER positive mammary tumor animal model from heterozygous NIH nude mice. Methods Using brother-sister mating with pedigree expansion system, we derived a colony of heterozygous breeding females showing ER-Positive tumors around the age of 6 months. Complete blood picture, differential leukocyte count, and serum levels of Estrogen, Alanine amino transferase (SGPT), Aspartate amino transferase (SGOT), total protein and albumin were estimated. Aspiration biopsies and microbiology were carried out. Gross pathology of the tumors and their metastatic potential were assessed. The tumors were excised and further characterized using histopathology, cytology, electron microscopy (EM), molecular markers and Mouse mammary Tumor Virus – Long Terminal Repeats (MMTV LTR) specific RT-PCR. Results The tumors originated from 2ndor 5thor both the mammary glands and were multi-nodulated with variable central necrosis accompanied with an accumulation of inflammatory exudate. Significant increases in estrogen, SGPT, SGOT and neutrophils levels were noticed. Histopathologically, invasive nodular masses of pleomorphic tubular neoplastic epithelial cells invaded fibro-vascular stroma, adjacent dermis and subcutaneous tissue. Metastatic spread through hematogenous and regional lymph nodes, into liver, lungs, spleen, heart and dermal lymphatics was observed. EM picture revealed no viral particles and MMTV-negativity was confirmed through MMTV LTR-specific RT-PCR. High expression of ER α, moderate to high expression of proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), moderate expression of vimentin and Cytokeratin 19 (K19) and low expression of p53 were observed in tumor sections, when compared with that of the normal mammary gland. Conclusion Since 75% of human breast cancer were classified ER-positive and as our model mimics (in most of the characteristics, such as histopathology, metastasis, high estrogen levels) the ER-positive luminal epithelial-like human breast cancer, this model will be an attractive tool to understand the biology of estrogen-dependant breast cancer in women. To our knowledge, this is the first report of a spontaneous mammary model displaying regional lymph node involvement with both hematogenous and lymphatic spread to liver, lung, heart, spleen and lymph nodes.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- BRCA1 Protein/metabolism
- Biomarkers, Tumor/metabolism
- Carcinoma, Ductal, Breast/metabolism
- Carcinoma, Ductal, Breast/pathology
- Carcinoma, Ductal, Breast/secondary
- Disease Models, Animal
- Estrogens/metabolism
- Female
- Heart Neoplasms/metabolism
- Heart Neoplasms/secondary
- Heterozygote
- Humans
- Immunohistochemistry
- Inbreeding
- Keratin-19/metabolism
- Liver Neoplasms/metabolism
- Liver Neoplasms/secondary
- Lung Neoplasms/metabolism
- Lung Neoplasms/secondary
- Lymphatic Metastasis
- Mammary Neoplasms, Experimental/metabolism
- Mammary Neoplasms, Experimental/pathology
- Mice
- Mice, Nude
- Proliferating Cell Nuclear Antigen/metabolism
- Receptors, Estrogen/metabolism
- Splenic Neoplasms/metabolism
- Splenic Neoplasms/secondary
- Tumor Suppressor Protein p53/metabolism
- Vimentin/metabolism
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Affiliation(s)
- MJ Mahesh Kumar
- Centre For Cellular and Molecular Biology, Uppal Road, Hyderabad 500 007, India
| | - KS Ponvijay
- Centre For Cellular and Molecular Biology, Uppal Road, Hyderabad 500 007, India
| | - R Nandhini
- Centre For Cellular and Molecular Biology, Uppal Road, Hyderabad 500 007, India
| | - RS Nagarajan
- Centre For Cellular and Molecular Biology, Uppal Road, Hyderabad 500 007, India
| | - J Jose
- Centre For Cellular and Molecular Biology, Uppal Road, Hyderabad 500 007, India
| | - G Srinivas
- Centre For Cellular and Molecular Biology, Uppal Road, Hyderabad 500 007, India
| | - P Nagarajan
- National Institute of Immunology, New Delhi 110067, India
| | - R Venkatesan
- National Institute of Immunology, New Delhi 110067, India
| | - Kishor Kumar
- Centre For Cellular and Molecular Biology, Uppal Road, Hyderabad 500 007, India
| | - S Singh
- Centre For Cellular and Molecular Biology, Uppal Road, Hyderabad 500 007, India
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Tilli MT, Cabrera MC, Parrish AR, Torre KM, Sidawy MK, Gallagher AL, Makariou E, Polin SA, Liu MC, Furth PA. Real-time imaging and characterization of human breast tissue by reflectance confocal microscopy. JOURNAL OF BIOMEDICAL OPTICS 2007; 12:051901. [PMID: 17994884 DOI: 10.1117/1.2799187] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Real-time technologies can increase the efficiency of obtaining informative biopsies and accelerate interpretation of biopsy pathological review. Cellular aberrations inherent to cancer cells, including nuclear size, can currently be detected, but few technologies are available to evaluate adequacy of specimens in real time. The aims of this study are: 1. to determine if near-infrared reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) can be used to assess epithelial/stromal content of core needle breast biopsy samples in real time, 2. to determine if epithelial cell nuclear size can be measured on RCM images, and 3. to test if RCM images can be accurately read for presence/absence of histologically relevant features of malignancy. Breast biopsies are obtained following a medically indicated breast core needle diagnostic biopsy for RCM examination. Acetic acid is used as a contrast agent to visualize structures within breast tissue. Structures are identified and optically serially sectioned, and digital images are cataloged. Relative amounts of epithelial, fatty, and collagenous tissue are determined. RCM biopsies are formalin-fixed and stained for hematoxylin and eosin (H and E) comparison with RCM images. RCM data are comparable to data from H and E sections. Epithelial cell nuclear size is measured on stored digital RCM images. We compare RCM and H and E images from 16 patients and 25 core needle biopsy samples.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maddalena T Tilli
- Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University, Washington, DC 20057, USA.
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37
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Jones LP, Tilli MT, Assefnia S, Torre K, Halama ED, Parrish A, Rosen EM, Furth PA. Activation of estrogen signaling pathways collaborates with loss of Brca1 to promote development of ERalpha-negative and ERalpha-positive mammary preneoplasia and cancer. Oncogene 2007; 27:794-802. [PMID: 17653086 PMCID: PMC3045705 DOI: 10.1038/sj.onc.1210674] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
Abstract
BRCA1 can regulate estrogen receptor-alpha (ERalpha) activity. This study tested the hypotheses that Brca1 loss in mammary epithelium alters the estrogenic growth response and that exposure to increased estrogen or ERalpha collaborates with Brca1 deficiency to accelerate preneoplasia and cancer development. Longer ductal extension was found in mammary glands of Brca1(f/f;MMTV-Cre) mice during puberty as compared to wild-type mice. Terminal end bud differentiation was impaired in Brca1 mutant mice with preservation of prolactin-induced alveolar differentiation. Exogenous estrogen stimulated an abnormal sustained increase in mammary epithelial cell proliferation and the appearance of ERalpha-negative preneoplasia in postpubertal Brca1 mutant mice. Carcinogenesis was investigated using Brca1(f/f;MMTV-Cre) mice hemizygous for p53. Exogenous estrogen increased the percentage of mice with multiple hyperplastic alveolar nodules. Targeted conditional ERalpha overexpression in mammary epithelial cells of mice that were Brca1 mutant and hemizygous for p53 increased the percentage of mice exhibiting multiple hyperplastic nodules, invasive mammary cancers and cancer multiplicity. Significantly more than half of the preneoplasia and cancers were ERalpha negative even as their initiation was promoted by ERalpha overexpression.
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Affiliation(s)
- L P Jones
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University, Washington, DC 20057, USA
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Tomic D, Frech MS, Babus JK, Gupta RK, Furth PA, Koos RD, Flaws JA. Methoxychlor induces atresia of antral follicles in ERalpha-overexpressing mice. Toxicol Sci 2006; 93:196-204. [PMID: 16787999 DOI: 10.1093/toxsci/kfl040] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Methoxychlor (MXC) is a pesticide that is known to bind to estrogen receptor alpha (ERalpha) and to induce atresia of antral ovarian follicles. Although studies have shown that MXC is toxic to the ovary, we hypothesize that perturbation to the estrogen-signaling system (i.e., increase or decrease in estrogen sensitivity) might alter ovarian responsiveness to MXC. Thus, we examined whether ERalpha overexpression alters the ability of MXC to increase follicle atresia. To do so, we employed a transgenic mouse model in which ERalpha can be inducibly overexpressed in animal tissues (ERalpha overexpressors). We dosed female controls and ERalpha overexpressors with sesame oil (vehicle control) or MXC (32 and 64 mg/kg/day) for 20 days. After dosing, the ovaries were collected for histological evaluation of follicle numbers and follicle atresia, while blood was collected for measurements of hormones. Estrous cycles were determined in all animals to ensure that all were terminated during estrus. Although there were no significant effects of MXC on the numbers of primordial, primary, and preantral follicles in both controls and ERalpha overexpressors, there was an effect on antral follicles. Specifically, our data indicate that 32 and 64 mg/kg MXC increased the percentage of atretic follicles compared to vehicle in both control and ERalpha overexpressor groups. Moreover, there was a clear trend toward greater sensitivity to 64 mg/kg MXC in ERalpha-overexpressing mice compared to control animals. Specifically, at the 64-mg/kg MXC dose, ERalpha-overexpressing mice had a significantly higher percentage of atretic follicles compared to control animals (controls = 21.5 +/- 3%, n = 5; ERalpha overexpressors = 37 +/- 23%, n = 9, p < or = 0.05 vs. controls). After 20 days of dosing, there were no differences in estradiol levels between controls and ERalpha-overexpressing mice in all treatment groups. Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels were similar in sesame oil-treated control mice and control mice treated with 32 mg/kg MXC, while control mice treated with 64 mg/kg MXC had significantly lower levels of FSH compared to sesame oil-treated controls (sesame oil = 4.31 +/- 0.7, MXC [64 mg/kg/day] = 1.89 +/- 0.4, n = 3, p < or = 0.02 vs. sesame oil). ERalpha-overexpressing mice treated with sesame oil, 32 or 64 mg/kg MXC, had similar FSH levels. Thus, we observed an increased percentage of atretic antral follicles in ERalpha-overexpressing mice treated with MXC compared to control mice treated with the same compound, suggesting that the ERalpha-signaling pathway plays an important role in MXC-induced atresia. The trend toward greater sensitivity to MXC in ERalpha-overexpressing mice compared to control animals cannot be explained by alterations in estradiol and/or FSH levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dragana Tomic
- Program in Toxicology, Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland 21201, USA
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Parrish A, Halama E, Tilli MT, Freedman M, Furth PA. Reflectance confocal microscopy for characterization of mammary ductal structures and development of neoplasia in genetically engineered mouse models of breast cancer. JOURNAL OF BIOMEDICAL OPTICS 2005; 10:051602. [PMID: 16292950 DOI: 10.1117/1.2065827] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
The earliest steps of breast cancer begin with aberrations in mammary ductal structure. Techniques that enable an investigator to image in situ and then analyze the same tissue using biochemical tools facilitates identification of genetic networks and signaling pathways active in the imaged structure. Cellular confocal microscopy (VivaCell-TiBa, Rochester, New York) is used to image mammary ductal structures and surrounding vasculature in situ in intact wild-type and genetically engineered mice that develop ER alpha-initiated ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) and ER alpha-driven invasive mammary cancer. In wild-type mice, normal mammary ductal structures that appear from puberty through lactation are visualized and serially sectioned optically, and a developmental atlas is created. Altering tissue preparation enabled visualization of the vasculature surrounding the ductal structures. In the genetically engineered mice, aberrant mammary ductal structures and cancers are imaged and compared to corresponding normal structures. Different preparation techniques are able to preserve tissue for routine histological analyses and RNA isolation. Comparative studies demonstrate that reflectance confocal imaging provides more cellular detail than carmine-alum-stained mammary gland whole mounts and equivalent detail with hematoxylin and eosin stained tissue sections. In summary, reflectance confocal microscopy is a tool that can be used to rapidly and accurately analyze mammary gland structure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Angela Parrish
- Georgetown University, Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, 3970 Reservoir Road NW, Washington, DC 20057, USA
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40
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Shen Q, Brown PH. Transgenic mouse models for the prevention of breast cancer. Mutat Res 2005; 576:93-110. [PMID: 15888345 DOI: 10.1016/j.mrfmmm.2004.10.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2004] [Revised: 10/25/2004] [Accepted: 10/27/2004] [Indexed: 05/02/2023]
Abstract
Breast cancer prevention research has made remarkable progress in the past decade. Much of this progress has come from clinical trials. However, in the future to test the many promising agents that are now available, pre-clinical models of breast cancer are needed. Such models are now available. Useful models include rat and mouse models, particularly, the genetically engineered mice (GEM). Many transgenic mouse models have been generated by manipulating growth factors and their receptors, cell cycle regulators, signal transduction pathways, cellular differentiation, oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes. The transgenes are induced to express in the mouse mammary glands under the control of various transgenic promoters, which have respective characteristics in expression pattern and other biological attributes. These models are providing invaluable insight on the molecular mechanisms of breast tumorigenesis. In this review, we discuss the relative relevance of the most commonly used transgenic mouse models for breast cancer prevention studies, and provide examples of how these transgenic models can be used to conduct cancer prevention research. Due to the multi-factor, multi-step nature of breast cancer, many factors should be incorporated into a valid prevention study. However, many barriers to progress must be overcome, including access to and availability of new cancer preventive drugs, and difficulties in conducting studies of combinations of preventive agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiang Shen
- Breast Center, Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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41
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Zhang X, Podsypanina K, Huang S, Mohsin SK, Chamness GC, Hatsell S, Cowin P, Schiff R, Li Y. Estrogen receptor positivity in mammary tumors of Wnt-1 transgenic mice is influenced by collaborating oncogenic mutations. Oncogene 2005; 24:4220-31. [PMID: 15824740 DOI: 10.1038/sj.onc.1208597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/02/2023]
Abstract
The majority (75%) of human breast cancers express estrogen receptor (ER). Although ER-positive tumors usually respond to antiestrogen therapies, 30% of them do not. It is not known what controls the ER status of breast cancers or their responsiveness to antihormone interventions. In this report, we document that transgenic (TG) expression of Wnt-1 in mice induces ER-positive tumors. Loss of Pten or gain of Ras mutations during the evolution of tumors in Wnt-1 TG mice has no effect on the expression of ER, but overexpression of Neu or loss of p53 leads to ER-negative tumors. Thus, our results provide compelling evidence that expression of ER in breast cancer may be influenced by specific genetic changes that promote cancer progression. These findings constitute a first step to explore the molecular mechanisms leading to ER-positive or ER-negative mammary tumors. In addition, we find that ER-positive tumors arising in Wnt-1 TG mice are refractory to both ovariectomy and the ER antagonist tamoxifen, but lose ER expression with tamoxifen, suggesting that antiestrogen selects for ER-negative tumor cells and that the ER-positive cell fraction is dispensable for growth of these tumors. This is a first report of a mouse model of antiestrogen-resistant ER-positive breast cancers, and could provide a powerful tool to study the molecular mechanisms that control antiestrogen resistance.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Antineoplastic Agents, Hormonal/pharmacology
- Breast Neoplasms/genetics
- Disease Models, Animal
- Drug Resistance, Neoplasm
- Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic
- Genes, p53
- Humans
- Immunohistochemistry
- Intercellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins/genetics
- Intercellular Signaling Peptides and Proteins/pharmacology
- Mammary Neoplasms, Animal/genetics
- Mice
- Mice, Transgenic
- Mitogens
- Ovariectomy/veterinary
- PTEN Phosphohydrolase
- Phosphoric Monoester Hydrolases/genetics
- Protein-Tyrosine Kinases
- Receptor, ErbB-2/genetics
- Receptors, Estrogen/biosynthesis
- Receptors, Estrogen/physiology
- Signal Transduction
- Tamoxifen/pharmacology
- Tumor Suppressor Proteins/genetics
- Wnt Proteins
- Wnt1 Protein
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaomei Zhang
- Breast Center, Baylor College of Medicine, One Baylor Plaza, N1210.03, Houston, TX 77030, USA
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42
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Jones LP, Li M, Halama ED, Ma Y, Lubet R, Grubbs CJ, Deng CX, Rosen EM, Furth PA. Promotion of mammary cancer development by tamoxifen in a mouse model of Brca1-mutation-related breast cancer. Oncogene 2005; 24:3554-62. [PMID: 15750629 DOI: 10.1038/sj.onc.1208426] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Loss of full-length Brca1 in mammary epithelial cells of the mouse mammary tumor virus (MMTV)-Cre Brca1 conditional exon 11 deletion mouse model results in the development of mammary adenocarcinomas with similar genetic changes to those found in human BRCA1-mutation-related breast cancers. We used this experimental model to evaluate the chemopreventive effect of tamoxifen on the development of mammary preneoplasia and adenocarcinoma. No protective effects of tamoxifen administration on mammary cancer development were found. Instead, tamoxifen treatment significantly increased rates of mammary epithelial cell proliferation and the prevalence of mammary hyperplasia at 6 months of age. Tamoxifen-exposed mice developed adenocarcinomas at younger ages than control mice and a higher percentage of mice developed adenocarcinomas by 12 months of age. Both whole mouse and tissue culture cell models were used to test if loss of full-length Brca1 was associated with a relative increase in the agonist activity of tamoxifen. Tamoxifen induced increased ductal growth in MMTV-Cre Brca1 conditional mice compared to wild type. Estrogen receptor alpha (ERalpha) expression was downregulated in the tamoxifen-induced hyperplasias. Reducing BRCA1 levels in MCF-7 cells using siRNA resulted in a relative increase in the agonist activity of tamoxifen. Results suggest a model of mammary cancer progression in which loss of full-length Brca1 altered the agonist/antagonist activity of tamoxifen, resulting in tamoxifen-induced mammary epithelial cell proliferation with subsequent loss of ERalpha expression and development of ERalpha-negative hyperplasias and adenocarcinomas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laundette P Jones
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Cancer Center, Georgetown University, Washington, DC 20057, USA
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43
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Tilli MT, Reiter R, Oh AS, Henke RT, McDonnell K, Gallicano GI, Furth PA, Riegel AT. Overexpression of an N-Terminally Truncated Isoform of the Nuclear Receptor Coactivator Amplified in Breast Cancer 1 Leads to Altered Proliferation of Mammary Epithelial Cells in Transgenic Mice. Mol Endocrinol 2005; 19:644-56. [PMID: 15550471 DOI: 10.1210/me.2004-0106] [Citation(s) in RCA: 42] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Amplified in breast cancer 1 (AIB1, also known as ACTR, SRC-3, RAC-3, TRAM-1, p/CIP) is a member of the p160 nuclear receptor coactivator family involved in transcriptional regulation of genes activated through steroid receptors, such as estrogen receptor α (ERα). The AIB1 gene and a more active N-terminally deleted isoform (AIB1-Δ3) are overexpressed in breast cancer. To determine the role of AIB1-Δ3 in breast cancer pathogenesis, we generated transgenic mice with human cytomegalovirus immediate early gene 1 (hCMVIE1) promoter-driven over-expression of human AIB1/ACTR-Δ3 (CMVAIB1/ACTR-Δ3 mice). AIB1/ACTR-Δ3 transgene mRNA expression was confirmed in CMV-AIB1/ACTR-Δ3 mammary glands by in situ hybridization. These mice demonstrated significantly increased mammary epithelial cell proliferation (P < 0.003), cyclin D1 expression (P = 0.002), IGF-I receptor protein expression (P = 0.026), mammary gland mass (P < 0.05), and altered expression of CCAAT/enhancer binding protein isoforms (P = 0.029). At 13 months of age, mammary ductal ectasia was found in CMV-AIB1/ACTR-Δ3 mice, but secondary and tertiary branching patterns were normal. There were no changes in the expression patterns of either ERα or Stat5a, a downstream mediator of prolactin signaling. Serum IGF-I levels were not altered in the transgenic mice. These data indicate that overexpression of the AIB1/ACTR-Δ3 isoform resulted in altered mammary epithelial cell growth. The observed changes in cell proliferation and gene expression are consistent with alterations in growth factor signaling that are thought to contribute to either initiation or progression of breast cancer. These results are consistent with the hypothesis that the N-terminally deleted isoform of AIB1 can play a role in breast cancer development and/or progression.
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MESH Headings
- Alternative Splicing
- Animals
- Antigens, Viral/genetics
- Blotting, Southern
- Blotting, Western
- Breast Neoplasms/embryology
- Cell Proliferation
- Cyclin D1/metabolism
- DNA/metabolism
- DNA-Binding Proteins/chemistry
- Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay
- Epithelial Cells/metabolism
- Estrogen Receptor alpha/metabolism
- Gene Expression Regulation
- Genotype
- Humans
- Immediate-Early Proteins/genetics
- Immunoblotting
- Immunohistochemistry
- In Situ Hybridization
- Insulin-Like Growth Factor I/biosynthesis
- Insulin-Like Growth Factor I/metabolism
- Mammary Glands, Animal
- Mammary Glands, Human/metabolism
- Mammary Neoplasms, Animal
- Mice
- Mice, Transgenic
- Milk Proteins/chemistry
- Models, Genetic
- Nuclear Receptor Coactivator 3
- Promoter Regions, Genetic
- Protein Isoforms
- Receptor, IGF Type 1/metabolism
- Reverse Transcriptase Polymerase Chain Reaction
- STAT5 Transcription Factor
- Signal Transduction
- Trans-Activators/chemistry
- Transcription Factors/biosynthesis
- Transcription Factors/chemistry
- Transgenes
- Tumor Suppressor Proteins
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Affiliation(s)
- Maddalena T Tilli
- Department of Oncology, Lombardi Cancer Center, Georgetown University, Research Building, Room E307, 3970 Reservoir Road, Washington, D.C. 20057, USA
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44
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Pei XF, Noble MS, Davoli MA, Rosfjord E, Tilli MT, Furth PA, Russell R, Johnson MD, Dickson RB. Explant-cell culture of primary mammary tumors from MMTV-c-Myc transgenic mice. In Vitro Cell Dev Biol Anim 2005; 40:14-21. [PMID: 15180438 DOI: 10.1290/1543-706x(2004)40<14:ecopmt>2.0.co;2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 71] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/11/2022]
Abstract
We have established an explant-cell culture system for mammary gland tumors from c-myc oncogene-expressing transgenic mice and potentially other transgenic strains. By coating culture dish surfaces with fetal bovine serum and using culture media supplemented with low serum and growth factors, the mammary tumor specimens could be maintained in culture for over 3 mo. Throughout the culture period, the explants produced abundant outgrowths of epithelial cells. As the outgrowths of epithelial cells filled the dishes, the explants were serially transferred from one dish to another-a process that could be repeated at least six times, thus providing a continuous supply of primary tumor cells. This culture system provides a useful tool for studying the biology of mouse mammary gland tumors and possibly tumors from other organ sites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xu Fang Pei
- Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Department of Oncology, Georgetown University Medical Center, The Research Building, 3970 Reservoir Road, Washington, D.C. 20007, USA
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Frech MS, Halama ED, Tilli MT, Singh B, Gunther EJ, Chodosh LA, Flaws JA, Furth PA. Deregulated Estrogen Receptor α Expression in Mammary Epithelial Cells of Transgenic Mice Results in the Development of Ductal Carcinoma In situ. Cancer Res 2005. [DOI: 10.1158/0008-5472.681.65.3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
A conditional tetracycline-responsive transgenic mouse model with deregulated estrogen receptor α expression in mammary epithelial cells developed ductal hyperplasia (DH), lobular hyperplasia, and ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) by 4 months of age. Higher proliferative rates were found in both normal and abnormal ductal and lobular structures. DH and DCIS but not normal ductal structures showed an increased percentage of cells with nuclear-localized cyclin D1. No differences in either the prevalence or extent of these phenotypes following exogenous 17β-estradiol treatment were found suggesting that alteration of ERα expression was the rate-limiting factor in initiation of DH, lobular hyperplasia, and DCIS.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. Silvina Frech
- 1Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Departments of
- 2Oncology and
| | - Ewa D. Halama
- 1Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Departments of
- 2Oncology and
| | | | - Baljit Singh
- 1Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Departments of
- 3Pathology, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Edward J. Gunther
- 4Department of Cancer Biology and Abramson Family Cancer Research Institute, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; and
| | - Lewis A. Chodosh
- 4Department of Cancer Biology and Abramson Family Cancer Research Institute, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania; and
| | - Jodi A. Flaws
- 5Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland
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46
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Frech MS, Halama ED, Tilli MT, Singh B, Gunther EJ, Chodosh LA, Flaws JA, Furth PA. Deregulated estrogen receptor alpha expression in mammary epithelial cells of transgenic mice results in the development of ductal carcinoma in situ. Cancer Res 2005; 65:681-5. [PMID: 15705859 PMCID: PMC6952528] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/01/2023]
Abstract
A conditional tetracycline-responsive transgenic mouse model with deregulated estrogen receptor alpha expression in mammary epithelial cells developed ductal hyperplasia (DH), lobular hyperplasia, and ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS) by 4 months of age. Higher proliferative rates were found in both normal and abnormal ductal and lobular structures. DH and DCIS but not normal ductal structures showed an increased percentage of cells with nuclear-localized cyclin D1. No differences in either the prevalence or extent of these phenotypes following exogenous 17beta-estradiol treatment were found suggesting that alteration of ERalpha expression was the rate-limiting factor in initiation of DH, lobular hyperplasia, and DCIS.
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MESH Headings
- Animals
- Carcinoma in Situ/genetics
- Carcinoma in Situ/metabolism
- Carcinoma, Ductal/genetics
- Carcinoma, Ductal/metabolism
- Cell Nucleus/metabolism
- Cell Proliferation
- Cell Transformation, Neoplastic/genetics
- Cell Transformation, Neoplastic/metabolism
- Cyclin D1/metabolism
- Estradiol/pharmacology
- Estrogen Receptor alpha/biosynthesis
- Estrogen Receptor alpha/genetics
- Female
- Gene Expression Regulation
- Gene Expression Regulation, Neoplastic
- Hyperplasia
- Mammary Glands, Animal/metabolism
- Mammary Glands, Animal/pathology
- Mammary Neoplasms, Experimental/genetics
- Mammary Neoplasms, Experimental/metabolism
- Mice
- Mice, Inbred C57BL
- Mice, Transgenic
- RNA, Messenger/biosynthesis
- RNA, Messenger/genetics
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Affiliation(s)
- M. Silvina Frech
- Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Ewa D. Halama
- Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Maddalena T. Tilli
- Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Baljit Singh
- Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia
- Department of Pathology, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia
| | - Edward J. Gunther
- Department of Cancer Biology and Abramson Family Cancer Research Institute, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Lewis A. Chodosh
- Department of Cancer Biology and Abramson Family Cancer Research Institute, University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
| | - Jodi A. Flaws
- Department of Epidemiology and Preventive Medicine, School of Medicine, University of Maryland, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Priscilla A. Furth
- Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia
- Department of Oncology, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia
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